Swimmer Advice-Tips, Tricks, and Ideas

Taper tip three

Getting through a difficult set can be, well, difficult. We all know that coaches often like to throw in a harder set, and then do some easier sets during taper season. So, when the going gets tough, keep going.

1. Keep track - say you're doing 10x50s on the :40. Instead of thinking about how hard that's gonna focus on the time. Since I'm a distance swimmer, I think of it as a 500 on the 6:20 which, for me, is a much more manageable number. Or, 5x100s on the 1:20.

2. Set short, manageable goals - every swimmer tries to get out of sets from time to time (don't even deny it) by going to the bathroom. So, what you do, is you think, ok, I'll go to the bathroom and claim an "emergency" after 2. Then you do the two, and increase it to finishing another 2. Keep doing this until the set is over, and then, if you legit need to go to the bathroom, go. Your coach will be much happier with you, and you'll feel accomplished.

3. Think of it in terms of math - I love doing this. Going back to the 10x50s on the :40 because I'm lazy and don't want to think of a new set. But anyways. Think of it in terms of math. Finish one, then tell everybody in your lane you're 10% of the way there. Then, finish another, and tell everybody you're 20% of the way there. By the time you're done, your teammates will want to clobber you, but it will be worth it!